THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 4 April 2025

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Thai Rice Crisis: Losing US to Vietnam Looms Over Thailand

 

File photo for reference only

 

Thai rice exporters are raising an alarm over potential losses in the US market, as Vietnam threatens to steal the spotlight with their cheaper rice.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356767-thai-rice-crisis-losing-us-to-vietnam-looms-over-thailand/

 

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Thai Baht Plummets with US Tariff Blow: 34.50 per Dollar Test Looms

 

Picture courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre

 

The Thai baht is expected to plunge to an alarming 34.50 per US dollar following the US's unexpected announcement of a hefty 37% reciprocal tariff on Thai imports.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356731-thai-baht-plummets-with-us-tariff-blow-a-3450-per-dollar-test-looms/

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US Tariffs Threaten Thai Economy with B360bn Blow

 

Composite image courtesy of Kasikorn Research Centre

 

Devastating tariff hikes from the United States could hit Thailand with a jaw-dropping 360 billion baht loss, shaving a staggering 2% off the nation's GDP, as warned by experts at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC).

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356728-us-tariffs-threaten-thai-economy-with-b360bn-blow/

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Pattaya Hotels Boom Amid Post-Quake Guest Surge as Hua Hin Falters

 

Picture courtesy of Travel Weekly

 

A surge of local travellers fleeing Bangkok's recent earthquake filled Pattaya hotels to capacity, while Hua Hin accommodations reported underwhelming results. On the quake's day and the following weekend, Pattaya saw unexpected full occupancy as many opted for a last-minute escape from the capital.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356733-pattaya-hotels-boom-amid-post-quake-guest-surge-as-hua-hin-falters/

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Russian Couple's Beach Frolic Draws Crowd in Pattaya

 

Pictures courtesy Daily News

 

In an unusual spectacle, a Russian couple's intimate moment on Pattaya Beach at 3:06 AM on 4th April attracted a sizeable crowd, turning the scene into a public show.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356772-russian-couples-beach-frolic-draws-crowd-in-pattaya/

 

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Indian PM Modi Meets Thaksin: Talks to Boost Thai-Indian Ties

 

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has touched down in Thailand to partake in the 6th Bimstec summit, held on April 4. In a notable move, Modi met yesterday with Thailand’s former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is known for his strong ties with India.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356779-indian-pm-modi-meets-thaksin-talks-to-boost-thai-indian-ties/

 

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Chinese Tourists' Urination Leads to Pattaya Brawl

 

Picture courtesy of CH7

 

Pattaya, 4 April – Police intervened after a brawl erupted when a Chinese tourist urinated in a private area, triggering a scuffle with a Thai resident who attempted to intervene.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356782-chinese-tourists-urination-leads-to-pattaya-brawl/

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Armed ‘Rider’ Robber Nabbed After Fleeing with Wife to Sakon Nakhon

Picture courtesy of Khoasod.

 

A man disguised as a food delivery rider who staged a daring armed gold heist at a major shopping mall in Bang Phli has been arrested after fleeing with his wife to her hometown in Sakon Nakhon.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1356740-armed-robbery-at-bang-phli-gold-shop-suspect-flees-with-400000-worth-of-jewellery/#findComment-19708474

 

[Georgealbert]

Tour Bus Crashes Off Road in Surat Thani – Multiple Injuries, Including Foreign Tourists

 

Pictured courtesy of Matichon.

 

A road crash occurred in Surat Thani, on 4 April, after a tour bus veered off the road and crashed, leaving dozens injured, including several foreign tourists. Emergency services rushed to the scene and engaged in a large-scale rescue operation.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1356809-tour-bus-crashes-off-road-in-surat-thani-–-multiple-injuries-including-foreign-tourists/

 

[snoop1130]

Ghost Tower Defies Odds: Bangkok's Abandoned Icon Survives Quake

 

File photo for reference only

 

The Sathorn Unique Tower, a 49-storey structure left in limbo for over thirty years, has become an unexpected symbol of resilience. Surviving a dramatic 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, it remains intact despite shockwaves striking regions as far as Bangkok, located over 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre. While the tremors wreaked havoc, including the collapse of a building under construction in the city, the Ghost Tower stands unmarked, sparking global intrigue.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356817-ghost-tower-defies-odds-bangkoks-abandoned-icon-survives-quake/

 

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Rugby Rising Star Bailey Hayward Breaks Family's Dark Past

 

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail

 

Bailey Hayward, a name now echoing through the Australian National Rugby League, is making proud strides as a 23-year-old halfback for the Canterbury Bulldogs. While he's celebrated on the field today, his family's history tells a tale of both sporting excellence and past turmoil.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356818-rugby-rising-star-bailey-hayward-breaks-familys-dark-past/

 

[snoop1130]

New Online Entry Requirement for UK Travelers to Thailand

 

Picture courtesy of St Albert Gazette

 

UK travelers heading to Thailand next month must be ready for a new digital requirement. Starting May 1, all foreign visitors must register online via the Thailand Digital Entry Card (TDAC) before entering the country. This replaces the paper TM6 arrival slip discontinued in April last year.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356819-new-online-entry-requirement-for-uk-travelers-to-thailand/

 

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Thailand Responds to US Trade Tariffs: Seeking Negotiation

 

File photo for reference only

 

In a significant economic development, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued a formal statement regarding the United States' latest trade tariffs, particularly impacting Thailand. The US, under President Donald Trump, has implemented a 36% import tariff on Thai goods as part of broader reciprocal trade measures.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356820-thailand-responds-to-us-trade-tariffs-seeking-negotiation/

 

[snoop1130]

Steel Maker Challenges Safety Results Amid Earthquake Probe

 

File photo for reference only

 

Xin Ke Yuan Steel Ltd faces increased scrutiny after rejecting safety test results from the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand. The tests revealed that their 32mm and 20mm deformed steel bars failed to meet safety standards. These bars were utilised in the construction of a building that collapsed during last Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, drawing attention to potential faults in steel integrity.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356821-steel-maker-challenges-safety-results-amid-earthquake-probe/

 

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British Man's Urgent Plea to Save Dying Father in Thailand

 

Picture courtesy of The Standard

 

A distraught British man is fighting to bring his critically ill father back from Thailand to the UK for life-saving medical treatment. Reginald Leo, 77, once hoped to enjoy retirement in Pattaya, but a seemingly minor foot wound has escalated into a severe medical crisis.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356822-british-mans-urgent-plea-to-save-dying-father-in-thailand/

 

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Bank of Thailand Launches Debt Relief and Anti-Fraud Initiative in Phuket

 

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

 

To support struggling debtors and fight financial fraud, the Bank of Thailand's Southern Office announced a new initiative, the "You Fight, We Help" programme, in Phuket on April 3. This effort aims at providing essential aid to citizens and small businesses facing financial difficulties and simultaneously addressing the surge in financial crime.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356823-bank-of-thailand-launches-debt-relief-and-anti-fraud-initiative-in-phuket/

 

[snoop1130]

Speed King Caught in Online Gambling Bust; Assets Seized

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Thailand's so-called speed king, influencer Ekkachai “Em” Meephrom, has been brought to a screeching halt. Authorities have seized over 50 million baht worth of luxury cars, motorbikes, and high-end goods linked to an alleged online gambling operation.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356824-speed-king-caught-in-online-gambling-bust-assets-seized/

 

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Treasury Offers Rent Relief to Earthquake-Affected Tenants

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Treasury Department announced vital financial support for tenants impacted by the March 28 earthquake in Thailand. As per Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, rent waivers are now available for those leasing state land in the affected regions, including Bangkok and 18 other provinces.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356825-treasury-offers-rent-relief-to-earthquake-affected-tenants/

 

[snoop1130]

Substandard Steel Likely in Collapsed Thai Government Building

 

File photo for reference only

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged suspicions that substandard steel may have contributed to the collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building during last Friday's earthquake. Speaking on the progress of the ongoing investigation, she highlighted concerns over the steel used in the building's construction.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356826-substandard-steel-likely-in-collapsed-thai-government-building/

 

[snoop1130]

Thai Steel Firm Under Investigation for Massive Tax Fraud

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A major Thai steel company, Xin Ke Yuan Company Limited, is at the centre of a significant criminal investigation after allegedly forging over 7,000 fake tax invoices, resulting in a tax scam exceeding 200 million baht. This week, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) launched a full-scale probe into what could be one of Thailand's most substantial tax fraud cases in recent years.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356830-thai-steel-firm-under-investigation-for-massive-tax-fraud/

 

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Entertainment Complex Bill Set for Parliament Review on April 9

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The much-debated Entertainment Complex Bill is slated for parliamentary discussion, likely on April 9, as confirmed by Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun. This bill, aimed at bolstering Thailand's economy by enhancing tourism beyond its seasonal peaks, received Cabinet approval on March 27.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356831-entertainment-complex-bill-set-for-parliament-review-on-april-9/

 

[snoop1130]

Politician's Son Killed in Brazen Attack at Market Opening

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV

 

A shocking daylight shooting at the grand opening of Ton Sai Market in Samut Prakan has left a politician's son dead and two others injured. The violent incident unfolded around midday on April 4, during a Chinese banquet intended to celebrate the market launch.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356833-politicians-son-killed-in-brazen-attack-at-market-opening/

 

[snoop1130]

Politician's Son Arrested for Girlfriend's Murder in Chai Nat

 

Photo via KomChadLuek and Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ

 

In a deeply disturbing case from Chai Nat province, the son of a local politician has been arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, 18-year-old Natnicha, known as Focus. The arrest followed the discovery of Focus's body in a rice field, found by the landowner, marking the tragic culmination of a violent dispute.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356834-politicians-son-arrested-for-girlfriends-murder-in-chai-nat/

 

[snoop1130]

Tourist Sparks Outrage in Phuket Over Throwing Fake Dollar Bills - video

 

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

 

A foreign tourist has ignited fury in Phuket after a viral video revealed them tossing counterfeit dollar bills from a moving car, reigniting criticisms of Thailand's visa exemption policy. The incident, suspected to be a social media stunt, unfolded along Yaowarat Road in Samkong.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356835-tourist-sparks-outrage-in-phuket-over-throwing-fake-dollar-bills-video/

 

[snoop1130]

Bangkok Governor Apologises as Rescue Efforts Fall Short in Building Collapse

 

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

In a poignant admission, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has publicly apologised after rescue teams failed to locate a woman whose cries for help were heard beneath the debris of a collapsed structure in Chatuchak district on April 2. Despite concentrated rescue efforts on April 3 in Zone B, where potential signs of life were detected, insurmountable obstacles impeded access.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356836-bangkok-governor-apologises-as-rescue-efforts-fall-short-in-building-collapse/

 

[snoop1130]

UPDATE:

Thailand's Hom Mali Rice Faces US Tariff Challenge Amidst Competitive Pressures

 

Photo courtesy of Vecteezy

 

Thailand's renowned Hom Mali fragrant rice is facing a significant challenge in the US market due to newly imposed reciprocal tariffs. The US has implemented a steep 36% tariff on Thai rice, increasing costs from approximately US$1,000 to US$1,400 per tonne, threatening its competitive edge against Vietnamese rice.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356767-thai-rice-crisis-losing-us-to-vietnam-looms-over-thailand/#findComment-19709572

 

[snoop1130]

Papaya Salad Vendor Finds Decomposing Body in Pattaya Thicket

 

Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News

 

In a scene reminiscent of a horror movie, a papaya salad vendor made a shocking discovery while taking a break in a remote area of Pattaya. On 3 April, at 3:06 PM, Khwan Chaona stumbled upon a decomposing body behind the old fresh market in Soi Thung Klom, transforming her routine break into an unforgettable ordeal.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356845-papaya-salad-vendor-finds-decomposing-body-in-pattaya-thicket/

 

[snoop1130]

Thailand Accelerates Emergency Alert Overhaul Post-Earthquake

 

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English

 

In response to the March 28 earthquake, Thailand's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has initiated a trial of a new Cell Broadcast alert system in Phuket. This move aims to upgrade the country's emergency alert infrastructure, addressing flaws exposed during the quake.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356847-thailand-accelerates-emergency-alert-overhaul-post-earthquake/

 

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to continue:

 

Thailand Live Saturday 5 April 2025 
https://aseannow.com/topic/1356829-thailand-live-saturday-5-april-2025/